Latin American Studies Certificate

Program Description

The Latin American Studies Certificate is for those who wish to enrich their understanding and appreciation of Latin American history, society, language and culture. This program is appropriate for students who strive to be professionals in an increasingly diverse society and for individuals entering or currently employed in positions in education, business, criminal justice, and other occupations where an understanding of Hispanic culture is critical towards one’s efficacy in the workplace. Students will study the cultural, historical, political, economic, religious, and social realities of Mexico, Central, and South America to gain a better understanding of the Hispanic impact on the United States and the growing Latino population in Minnesota.

Program Outcomes

By completing this program, students will achieve the following learning outcomes:
• Demonstrate knowledge and appreciation of cultural values, norms and traditions per specific world language, and basic understanding that these differences have an impact on group relationships and interactions;
• Demonstrate appropriate class level receptive and/or written world language skills; and
• Demonstrate appropriate cultural rules of interaction when conversing in the target language.

Career Opportunities

The Latin American Studies Certificate is for those who wish to enrich their understanding and appreciation of Latin American history, society, language and culture. This program is appropriate for students who strive to be professionals in an increasingly diverse society and for individuals entering or currently employed in positions in education, business, criminal justice, and other occupations where an understanding of Hispanic culture is critical towards one’s efficacy in the workplace. Students will study the cultural, historical, political, economic, religious, and social realities of Mexico, Central, and South America to gain a better understanding of the Hispanic impact on the United States and the growing Latino population in Minnesota. The program includes broad regional, cultural, and language training appropriate for further academic work or careers in business, education, government, and healthcare. The certificate also will enhance a liberal arts education in fields such as history, political science, sociology, anthropology, world languages, economics, global health, and environmental science.